Salt cod fritters, known as pastéis de bacalhau, are a beloved Portuguese delicacy that has captured the hearts of food enthusiasts worldwide. These delectable treats trace their culinary lineage back to the shores of Portugal, where they are often served as appetizers or snacks. Pastéis de bacalhau are crafted using a harmonious blend of salted cod, potatoes, parsley, and various seasonings, all enveloped in a golden-crisp exterior. Join us on a culinary journey as we explore the secrets behind creating the perfect salt cod fritters, unraveling the techniques and ingredients that elevate this dish to culinary excellence.
Check out the recipes below so you can choose the best recipe for yourself!
SALT COD FRITTERS
Provided by Emeril Lagasse
Categories appetizer
Time 1h25m
Yield 24 fritters
Number Of Ingredients 21
Steps:
- In a small saucepan, bring the potato and enough water to cover to a boil. Reduce the heat and cook just until fork tender, about 12 minutes. Drain and transfer to a large bowl to cool for 10 minutes.
- With the back of a heavy fork, mash the potatoes until smooth but still slightly lumpy. Add the salt cod, green onions, parsley, 1 egg, the salt, and cayenne and mix until smooth.
- In a large, deep heavy pot or electric deep fryer, heat enough oil to come halfway up the sides to 350 degrees F.
- In a small bowl, combine the flour and 1 teaspoon of the Essence. In another bowl, beat together the remaining egg, the milk, and 1/4 teaspoon of the Essence, and in a third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with the remaining 2 teaspoons Essence.
- Divide the cod mixture into 24 and form into balls, about 1 1/4-inches in diameter and 1 heaping tablespoon each.
- One at a time, dip the cod balls in the flour and roll to coat evenly on all sides. Shake to remove any excess flour, dip in the egg wash, and then roll in the seasoned breadcrumbs. Place on a baking sheet.
- In batches, gently add the balls to the oil and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 2 1/2 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Serve immediately.
- Combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Recipe from "New New Orleans Cooking", by Emeril Lagasse and Jessie Tirsch
- Published by William and Morrow, 1993.
- In a large glass or ceramic dish, lay the salt cod in a single layer. Add enough water to cover the fish by 1-inch, cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 6 hours.
- Drain the fish in a colander and rinse under cold running water. Place the fish on a work surface covered with paper towels and press each piece firmly with your hands. Pat the fish dry with paper towels and return to the soaking dish. Cover with fresh water, soaking and draining a total of three more times (for a total of 4 times in all).
- Place the rinsed and dried salt cod in an airtight container until ready to use, and refrigerate for up to 1 week.
BOLINHO DE BACALHAU (SALT-COD FRITTERS)
Provided by Connie Mccabe
Categories project, appetizer
Time 40m
Yield Serves 6 to 8
Number Of Ingredients 10
Steps:
- The day before cooking, prepare the salt cod by rinsing under cold water. Place the fillets in a bowl and fill with cold water. Refrigerate, changing water occasionally, about 24 hours. The fish should be soft when ready.
- Place the potatoes in a pot and fill with lightly salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until potatoes are soft. Drain, mash and set aside.
- Drain the fillets and shred into a bowl. Add the potatoes, onion, egg yolks, garlic, parsley and olive oil. Work the mixture until it is blended. Season with salt and pepper.
- Pour oil into a saucepan about 3 inches deep. Place over medium-high heat. Meanwhile, shape the fish mixture into balls about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Test the oil by dropping in a little batter; if it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready. Carefully drop a few balls in; do not crowd. Fry until golden, about 2 minutes, then remove and drain. Repeat with remaining batter. Serve hot.
Nutrition Facts : @context http, Calories 484, UnsaturatedFat 6 grams, Carbohydrate 22 grams, Fat 9 grams, Fiber 2 grams, Protein 75 grams, SaturatedFat 1 gram, Sodium 7977 milligrams, Sugar 1 gram, TransFat 0 grams
Tips:
- Use good quality salt cod. It should be firm and white, with no brown spots. Soak the salt cod in cold water for 24 hours, changing the water every 8 hours. This will remove the salt and rehydrate the fish.
- Shred the salt cod finely. This will help it blend better with the other ingredients and make the fritters more tender.
- Use a food processor to finely chop the onion and garlic. This will help them blend better with the other ingredients and make the fritters more flavorful.
- Season the fritters well with salt and pepper. You can also add other spices, such as paprika, cumin, or oregano, to taste.
- Fry the fritters in hot oil until they are golden brown and crispy. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan, or the fritters will not cook evenly.
- Serve the fritters hot with your favorite dipping sauce. Some popular choices include tartar sauce, mayonnaise, or aioli.
Conclusion:
Salt cod fritters are a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer or snack. They are perfect for parties or potlucks, and they are also a great way to use up leftover salt cod. With a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a delicious and satisfying dish that everyone will enjoy.
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